Chrissie Hynde has apologised to fans over her issues with phone usage and repeat front row gig-goers at Pretenders gigs.
Chrissie Hynde has said she is 'sorry' to anyone one offended by her gig rules
In October, the 'Brass In Pocket' hitmakers sparked outrage by asking their supporters to "give local fans a chance" to be on the front row at their concerts, while the frontwoman requested that smartphones are not used during their performances as it’s off putting.
The 73-year-old rocker has now said she is "sorry" but further explained why it bothers her and admitted she’s even contemplated quitting touring.
She began a lengthy statement: “First of all, I’m sorry that I’ve never adjusted to the phone/filming/picture taking culture. I’ve sworn and berated the very audience that is there for us. There’s no way to explain how distracting it is and why I have a meltdown when I see a phone. Every night I come off stage scolding myself and saying it’s just not worth it and maybe it’s time to hang up the guitar and find a new vocation.”
The musician highlighted that she is not alone in her issue with recording or taking pictures at concerts, name-dropping Bob Dylan as one of the artists who asks for fans to place their devices into a secure bag for the duration of his shows.
She continued: "But I love the band and I love playing live for you. I just don’t like being stalked. I see I’m not alone and some venues are now banning phones and many acts are banning them too. [Bob] Dylan famously has phones sealed in a bag throughout his shows. We post signs around the venues saying please do not use your phones, but some people just cannot resist. Anyway, I do feel baffled and bad about it. I know pop acts encourage phones because they want to be on social media. But we are not a pop act. We’re a rock band ( in case you didn’t notice)."
Chrissie then explained why she finds it unfair when the same people are on the front row.
She said: "The other thing I said which seems to have caused offense in some quarters is when I asked that anyone who has seen more than a few shows, move back out of the front row and let the locals have the front. I will reinstate that we love to see people come back for more, but we travel the world to play to a new audience each night, so it’s good to see the locals up front. Come one and all…... but be fair!"
On a more positive note, Chrissie thanked fans who left her presents on the tour.
She said: "Oh yeah, and thank you to whoever it was gifted me with a lovely pair of silver music clef earrings. I just found them when clearing out my wardrobe case and I’m wearing them now.
"Also I was given some excellent vinyl of some of my favourite artists. Thank You !!!!"
Chrissie signed off with a festive message, writing: "So, have a merry Christmas and a happy new year and thank you once again for making it a joyful year for myself and the band entire, and our lovely crew.
"Best wishes all round!"
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